Ohio Voices for LearningContact OVL
About OVL
Photo of a Group of OVL Members Sharing in a Circle "The study group has become a lifeline for me! Our study group has found a common ground in the study of the Reggio philosophy." Photo of a Group of OVL Members Sharing Together in a Circle

Mission Statement

Ohio Voices for Learning:
A Reggio Inspired Forum exists to promote an exchange of information, ideas and experiences through a variety of professional development opportunities. We strive to inspire quality early learning and care for young children and their families in Ohio.

A Brief History How Our Group Started
And Where We're Going

More than 10 years ago, in 1993, the educators from Reggio Emilia, Italy, introduced the concept of an educational exchange to Ohio's early childhood community through the exhibit: The Hundred Languages of Children. The Ohio Department of Education sponsored the exhibit which served as both a location and a topic to bring individuals from many early care and education programs together to share their reactions, dreams, ideas and impressions. In 1994, informal study groups formed around the state to continue the exchange.

By 2004, over 500 study group members including teachers, caregivers, parents, administrators and other early childhood professionals had entered into a dialogue to develop a shared understanding of the principles of the Reggio Emilia Approach and to explore how these principles could inspire change in their individual settings.

In 2007, the informally organized network of study groups became incorporated and known as: Ohio Voices for Learning: A Reggio Inspired Forum (OVL). Study groups and statewide meetings continue. The educational exchange has been strengthened by the development of the Ohio Exhibit, "Where Ideas Learn to Fly." It offers an opportunity to showcase the work of the study groups by sharing experiences illustrating how the principles of Reggio Emilia are implemented in Ohio classrooms and pays tribute to the teachers, children and families working together to learn and grow. In addition, OVL sponsors professional development programs such as the Inspired Teachers Institute.

 

Ohio Voices for Learning: A Reggio Inspired Forum.
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